Northwest 50 Plus South Valley Edition March 2021 by Northwest50Plus

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Your companion for living well in the northwest

South Valley March 2021

Home & Garden Issue Kari’s Kitchen

A Circle of Life Lined with Love . . . and Food

Create a

Great Garden – with Ease and Safety

Spring Clean

Simplify & Downsize

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VOLUME 25 | NUMBER 3

OREGON’S OLDEST & LARGEST 50+ PUBLICATION

3 Editions serving adults aged 50 and older Portland-Metro-Vancouver, Marion-Polk-Coast, South Valley: Linn-Benton Lane

Weathering together

Wow! We’re welcoming the spring in the Northwest on the JENNIFER MCCAMMON

Publisher 971-200-9686 JMcCammon@northwest50plus.com DOREEN HARROLD Office Manager/Sales Assistant DHarrold@northwest50plus.com PAUL DELURY Account Executive 541.870.5484 pdelury@northwest50plus.com TAY JUNCKER Lead Designer TJuncker@northwest50plus.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

RJ Adler, Kristan Dael, Christy Doherty, Randal C. Hill, Kimberly Z. Miller, Grace Peterson, Kym Pokorny, Candy Puterbaugh, Pamela Slaughter P.O. Box 12008, Salem, OR 97309 4923 Indian School Rd. NE, Salem, OR 97305 503-304-1323 info@northwest50plus.com Northwest50Plus.com Subscriptions $26/year | $49/2 years Printed by Eagle Web Press, Salem, OR

heels of the biggest snow/ice/outage event in 60 years! While many struggled, we were once again reminded how big the heart of this community really is. Folks checked on each other, made supply runs and shared provisions, opened their homes to unexpected guests and more. Times like this really illustrate how on the coldest days, we are surrounded by love, warmth and safety. We hope you and yours fared well. Now . . . let spring begin! It’s time for spring cleaning, simplifying, and for many, moving or downsizing. Our home and garden coverage features tips, ideas and information that provides great resources, ideas and inspiration. Circling back, I want to share a new discovery: “PDX Concierge.” This nonprofit comprised of teens has, since last April, been providing free delivery of groceries and food bank provisions, sending greeting cards and checking in on older folks throughout the region. You’ll meet them in a coming issue, but for now, if you could use their help, visit pdxdeliver.com or email pdxconcierge2020@gmail.com. Now a note about the future. May will soon be here, and we’re celebrating Mom! We’d love to share your stories about either what it means to you to be a mom, or about what makes or made your mom special. Please send your story to me at jmccammon@northwest50plus.com. I hope you’ll join us for this special celebration. Thank you for being part of the 50Plus family. Here’s to the joy of springtime renewal!

Northwest 50 Plus is published monthly and locally owned and operated by Eagle Newspapers, Inc. The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted by Northwest 50 Plus. Any use of all or any part of this publication is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.

Find us on social media @Northwest 50 Plus NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

15 Free Master

Gardener Series

contents

Home & Garden Issue 8

Spring Clean, Simplify, Downsize without overwhelm While spring brings the urge to perfect one’s nest, the tasks can be overwhelming. Pamela Slaughter offers expert advice on making smart choices and preventing overwhelm.

Experts teach Oregon gardeners a variety of great classes, addressing issues like wildfires, climate change and pollinators.

Create a Great Garden – with Ease and Safety Grace Peterson shares two favorite books to help keep gardens beautiful with ease and while staying safe.

Danger, Dames, Double O Seven Homage and a look back the late, great Sean Connery’s career.

18 For the

♥ of Pets –

Hope Found Me

Color Me Home Painting is the easiest, fastest, most affordable way to transform your home. Not surprisingly, Miller Paint’s color of year is uplifting, evoking comfort and serenity.

Fitness – Don’t get Sidelined by Your Home Project Home and garden projects can be just as strenuous as a conventional workout. Stretch and warm up to prevent strain or injury.

Wheel Pad Home Units Keeping Families Together Discover how tiny homes and attachments can make any property universally accessible.

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

The Circle of life lined with love ... and food Kari’s Kitchen was born in the schoolyard, when waiting parents mused, “What’s for dinner.”

Danger, Dames, Double-O-Seven by Randal C. Hill

“Bond. James Bond.” Film critic Peter Bradshaw once wrote, “It is the most famous self-introduction from any character in movie history. Three cool monosyllables. Surname first, a little curtly... then, as if an afterthought, the first name, and again the surname. Connery carried it off with an icily disdainful style, in full evening dress [and] with a cigarette hanging from his lips.” UK writer Ian Fleming’s novel Dr. No was first published in 1958. Four years later, the silver screen treatment gave movie fans worldwide a chance to see, for the first time, Fleming’s fearless, dashing, lady-loving Agent 007 in a highly entertaining bit of celluloid melodrama. Its handsome star was a 32-year-old newcomer with a thin resume. The Scottish breakout actor, Sean Connery, was born in 1930 to an Edinburgh factory worker and a cleaning woman. As an adult, Connery worked as a milkman, truck driver, lifeguard, artist’s model and coffin polisher (!) before finding fame and fortune via James Bond. As licensed-to-kill Agent 007, our hero was about as sexy and dangerous as one gets. But before the moviegoing public was allowed to see (and swoon over) Connery, director Terence

Young first tutored the rougharound-the-edges actor to display wit, charm and style as the charismatic Bond character. And while Connery stood 6’2”, all the Bond sets and furniture were built slightly smaller than in real life to make Agent 007 appear even larger and more imposing. In Dr. No, Bond is sent to Jamaica to investigate the murder of a fellow agent and his secretary. He eventually becomes involved with a mysterious and sinister nuclear scientist named Dr. Julius No (Joseph Wiseman), whose goal is world domination. Along the way, Bond must contend with such inconveniences as a “deadly” tarantula (tarantulas aren’t poisonous), flame throwers, flying bullets, severe beatings and a near drowning. Adding to the complications is a trio of temptresses — the Oriental charmer Miss Taro (Zena Marshall), casino denizen Sylvia Trench (Eunice Gayson), and the bikini-clad, seashell-collecting siren Honey Ryder (Ursula Andress). Dr. No doesn’t appear until an hour and 27 minutes into the story. At one point, the nogoodnik tries in vain to persuade 007 to join his evil organization. Dr. No huffs, “I thought you had some style, Mr. Bond, but I see you’re just a stupid policeman.”

Dr. No provided the signature elements for the later James Bond movie offerings — its distinctive theme music, head-spinning, highoctane action sequences, alluring young women, and even Bond’s preference for vodka martinis — shaken, not stirred. Footnote: Upon release, United Artists had to alter the title to serve foreign markets. In South Korea, for example, the film’s name would have literally translated to 007 Murder Number, and in Japan it would have been, We Don’t Want Doctors!

"Do you lose as gracefully as you win?" Bond: "I don't know. I never lost." Thank you for the adventures, Mr. Bond. Sean Connery 8/25/30~10/31/20

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A circle of life lined with love ... and food by Candy Puterbaugh

Looking back over her 52 years, Kari Anderton says she was always gathering ingredients for the successful at-home cooking school, Kari’s Kitchen, that she started 10 years ago. The ingredients came from a mix of memories: . . . family Christmas Eve crab dinners, a tradition of her grandfather’s, a commercial fisherman . . . almond crescent cookies, canned pickled herring and currant jam, specialties of her Norwegian grandmother’s . . . homemade breads, jams, canned fruits, and daily family dinners prepared by her creative mother A passion for cooking and a bubbling personality sealed her recipe for success. “As a kid, I didn’t really cook myself but was surrounded by good food,” says Kari. “I liked the outdoors, climbing trees, picking berries and gardening. I didn’t really see Kari’s Kitchen coming when I was younger.” It all started when her two sons were in grade school. “I’d chat on the playground with other parents,” Kari recalls. “The conversation centered around, ‘What’re you cooking for dinner?’ We needed to come up with menus. I liked to cook so I started doing in-home workshops with hands-on cooking.” Up to 15 people came to Kari’s home Monday nights to learn how to make appetizers, two entrees and a dessert. After cooking, they dined together.

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

After three years of leading workshops for book groups, girls’ nights out, and corporate team building, Kari's father became ill. She took time off to help her family. He was fun, boisterous, and the life of the party, she says lovingly.

“I love the whole process, but it’s a ton of prep work!” she says. “I find recipes, tweak them, test them, and fix them for my family’s reactions. And my kitchen needs to be clean! It’s tricky because I’m always doing multiple things at once!”

Fast forward to the pandemic, bringing a new need for Kari’s help.

Kari has always been active. Born into an athletic family, she ran hurdles and played soccer and basketball at Wilson High. At the University of Oregon, she was in student government and majored in communications. During her senior year she interned at Nike, then worked 10 years for them as the apparel product development trainer.

“A teacher friend asked for my help as she saw that people were desperate for healthy at-home meals,” she says. “I wanted to do my part. My sons were older, and I had more time, so I offered free, fun, light-hearted 15- to 30-minute live cooking demos twice a week on Facebook.” Feedback was good, and Kari was hired to do a private workshop for a local investment firm via Zoom. People could either cook along or simply watch. Next came a workshop for her college sorority, and a virtual company holiday party, where she supplied kits of local ingredients for a pomegranate salsa and cocktail, plus cheesy herb rolls. She varied that menu for her Portland Garden Club. Since last March, she's done a dozen workshops, each tailored to her client’s needs and the season.

In 1998 she married Dave, a CPA, in her childhood home. At 29, her first son was born. “I always had an interest in raising kids and staying home, but was torn because I loved the corporate life,” she says. Now she has the best of both worlds. “I get excited about healthy, homemade food,” she says. “My sons grew up with a wide-open palate! I also love teaching and people. My workshops are an outlet for those stuck at home. I love going live and seeing happy, smiling faces. And they get something to eat!”

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Spring Clean, Simplify or Downsize Without Feeling Overwhelmed

by Pamela Slaughter

Spring is a time of new beginnings. Trees are bright with leaves and blossoms, flowers are blooming, and new life is everywhere — baby birds, fawns, puppies, kittens. Springtime also brings the urge for people to perfect their nests, cleaning, organizing and updating. Walls are painted, windows washed, furniture rearranged. Many also simplify or consider a move. While some would love to move, a sense of overwhelm holds them back. Moving is always stressful, even while being exciting. There are almost always unexpected expenses, and countless decisions include when to start packing, what to take and what to leave. Stress can run high, and even be crippling when one has things collected over decades. Imagine delaying a move that would improve your life because you feel overwhelmed. Imagine spending thousands of extra dollars a year to stay in a home because the prospect of moving is just too much. So rather than moving into a home that really fits your life today, you stay put, and pay the price. People do just that, every year. Some spend their golden years yearning to downsize but never do. Here are some simple but impactful tips to help achieve your goals with no regrets:

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

Start a detailed moving 1checklist months in advance.

This step is important as it will help ensure you don't forget something important, such as canceling cable and utilities. Great, step by step checklist samples are available free online — customize the list to meet your needs. Here are a few helpful examples: Mymove.com – Pre-MoveChecklist Moving.com - Senior Moving Checklist - Elderly Move Planning Whereyoulivematters.org Moving & Downsizing Checklist for Seniors Movesforseniors.com - SeniorMoving-Checklist.pdf Many of us have items from generations, and a checklist — even very detailed — isn’t enough. In that case, consider professional

help. Many professionals require immediate payment, but some will wait until your home sells to get paid. Request referrals from your Realtor or friends or check reviews online.

2 When it's time to downsize, downsize. If you

find it difficult to part with favorite items even when no longer needed or you lack the space to store them, decide in advance what to do with them. It helps to group things, like: • Take to the new home • Sell – individually or in a moving sale • Give to relatives or friends • Donate (get a tax receipt!) • Recycle or throw away It can help to photograph things cherished but no longer needed. Enlist the help of ruthless adult children or friends who lean toward minimalism. What happens when you can’t get through it all and need to rent storage? Here are some ideas: Don't store anything unless there's a reason and a deadline. I know people who have spent thousands on rented storage for things they’d never use again. Years later, tired of paying for things they didn’t miss, they decided not to pay another year to store items not even worth the cost of storage. I've even been one of those people! It’s tough to get rid of things you have memories and emotion attached to or that have monetary value, and exhausting to sell items one at a time to strangers. It can be tempting to save things for later, when you can find a place for them. I’ve been there. If you must rent storage, consider paying the year in advance. Or pay by the quarter, and work to empty the unit before the next quarter begins. Sometimes a storage unit is wonderful, like when you realize that blue rug in storage works better than the green rug in your new home. Usually, however, renting storage after moving is like paying for the luxury of avoiding dealing with things.

If you do rent storage, empty it as soon as you can so you can have closure on your move and totally enjoy your new home. It’s wonderful when everything in your forever home has a place, and your home feels comfortable. When you’re left with the items you most value, then no matter where you look, you'll see something you care about. And that's a great way to start your next chapter.

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Color me home

by Kristan Dael

“Because of people spending more time at home due to Covid they’re understanding even more the impact of color on their world,” says Puji Sherer, Director of Color Marketing for Miller Paint. “Color is the most affordable, quickest, low-work way to create a “huge transformation — low cost, low effort,” she says. While stark whites and grays have been hot in recent years, Sherer says people are craving more warmth. Off whites with peach undertones are popular, and one favorite, “French Linen” has umber undertones. The color of the year? “Simple Serenity,” a light blue that Sherer describes as “uplifting, almost spiritual.” It’s also versatile, she says, “Like your favorite blue jeans — you can pair it with any color and it looks great.” Simple Serenity is also said to create a personal sanctuary feel, with a spa-like vibe. Color preferences change with the times, and while Miller Paint’s 2020 color was Lioness, a yellow chosen for enthusiasm and female empowerment, this year’s color comes from the collective need for healing and well-being. “Our choices reflect where we’re at and what we crave,” Sherer says.

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

TIPS • Consult an expert. “I got into this because I was a painter,” says Sherer. “Color can create huge transformation, but the choices can be overwhelming. A pro can help simplify the process.” • Test, test, test. Place swatches of possible choices on the wall(s) to be painted and look at them throughout the day/evening as lighting changes the look and vibe. • Be mindful of scale. Color on a swatch looks different than on an entire wall or room. Natural light and scale (larger swaths of paint) become more intense.

The color of the year? Simple Serenity, a light blue described as uplifting, almost spiritual.

• Choose the right product. Sheen makes a difference. • Don’t be afraid of color. Different shades evoke different feelings. The experts can help: MillerPaint.com.

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HOME PROJECTS Don’t Get Sidelined piece of clay, it will tear apart. When that happens to muscles and ligaments, it is a strain or sprain. On the other hand, if you work the clay first and warm it up, it will adapt and stretch without breaking. A good warmup combined with a stretch intended to work your joints through full ranges of motion are your best investment in injury prevention. These 5 moves will get your muscles moving and help keep injuries at bay. 1 Rotation march

by Kimberly Z. Miller

Calling all weekend warriors and home improvement heroes! Before you kick off a home project, take time to warm up and stretch. You want to be back at it the next day to complete the project — not sidelined with an injury! You wouldn’t hit the trail for a run or lift weights without warming up and stretching a bit, right? Home projects and garden makeovers can be just as physically demanding. A little preparation will help keep you injury free. To get the most benefit from your stretch, muscles should be warmed up. Think of your muscles like clay: if you start pulling a cold

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

Stand tall and place your hands behind your head with elbows pointing out. While raising your right knee up as high as you comfortably can, rotate your torso, angling your left elbow toward your right knee. Repeat opposite side. Continue one minute to warm up your core and get your heart rate up. 2 Shoulder drop stretch Stand with feet wide and place your hands on the inside of your thighs, fingers pointing inward. Keep your back flat, drop your right shoulder toward the ground and look over your left shoulder. Hold for one breath and repeat opposite side. Aim for 5-10 repetitions each side to warm up your back.

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3 Air squats Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and weight on your heels. Push your hips backward and bend your knees until your thighs are as parallel to the ground as possible. Press through your heels and return to standing. Go as quickly as you can safely. Move through the full range of motion for 1 minute to warm up your legs. 4 Shoulder circles Stand tall and raise your arms straight out to the sides (no higher than shoulder height). Make fists with your thumb pointing forward and circle your arms forward for 10 reps, then backward 10 reps. Shake your arms out and repeat with thumbs pointing upward to warm up your shoulders. 5 Hip Circles Stand with feet a little more than shoulder width apart, place both hands in the small of your back. Keep your legs straight without locking your knees and make 10-15 clockwise circles with your hips, making them larger as you go. Repeat counterclockwise to lubricate your spine and warm up your hips. See photos of moves at northwest50plus.com.

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WANTED: Your stories What’s so special about Mom? Northwest50Plus celebrates Mom May 2021 and we’d love to hear your stories about either what’s so special about your mom, or what has been most meaningful about being a mom yourself. Please submit stories — 75 words or less — to: jmccammon@ northwest50plus.com.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating Mom! NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

Wheel Pad home units

keeping families together by RJ Adler

Lineberger, owner of Wheel Pad, which built bedroom and bathroom wheelchair accessible units that attached to existing homes. Jennifer called her.

Bob put the phone on the table and his head in his hands. Jennifer, his wife, looked at him from the counter, "I guess you need to go back to Chicago.” He’d just returned two weeks before. Bob, an arborist, traveled back and forth from Vermont all winter caring for his dad, John. Last visit he thought he had finally settled all caregiving issues. Bob’s work was picking up. Pruning season had just begun when John’s longtime neighbor called to say John had fallen and was taken to the hospital. Bob would have to go, his fourth trip in as many months. They needed a solution. John was soon released to a short-term rehab facility in Brattleboro, VT where Bob and Jennifer live with their son. They planned to move John into a long-term care home, but he had a catheter so was not eligible. Stuck in an expensive temporary facility where the pandemic was taking hold, the family considered how to make their small home wheelchair accessible. Pondering how long that might take, Jennifer remembered something. She had helped organize a Tiny House Festival, where she’d met Julie

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

After minor sitework, installation was completed in a single weekend. That Sunday Bob and Jennifer watched their teenage son push John up the ramp and onto the deck outside sliding doors of John’s new space. They breathed a collective sigh of relief; dad was home with them.

In the news . . .

Help those without computers to schedule vaccines Lane County Public Health has announced that anyone can help seniors in our community by assisting with vaccine preregistration for those without computer access. The preregistration form can be found at http://bit.ly/ LaneCOVIDVax or by calling 541-682-1380. The contact information field on the form only requires email OR phone, so if someone does not have email that field can be left blank, as long as a phone number is listed. Neighbors helping neighbors is more important than ever. Thanks for lending a hand!

Free Master Gardener series open to the public

by Kym Pokorny

As more people discover the joys of gardening during the pandemic, the Oregon State University Extension Service Master Gardener program has introduced a new series of free monthly virtual classes. Growing Oregon Gardeners: Level Up broadcasts at 3 pm every second Tuesday via Zoom through November. Classes are free but registration is required. Those who can’t attend can access the classes at https://extension.oregonstate.edu/mg/ growing-oregon-gardeners-level-series Class topics are far-ranging, from Dazzling Dahlias to Adapting Your Garden and Landscape to Climate Change, and are meant for those with a bit of gardening under their belt, says LeAnn Locher, OSU Extension Master Gardener outreach coordinator. “The classes came about as Master Gardener staff across the state saw the outpouring from the public for gardening information during COVID,” Locher says. “The classes help as a twofold response: One is to give Master Gardeners an opportunity to continue their education and the other is to respond to the great interest for gardening knowledge and support from the public.” Classes are specifically based on timely issues and the priorities of the Master Gardener program and are specific to Oregonians. Taught by horticulture experts from around the state, classes address current issues like wildfires, climate change and pollinators.

Following are class titles; details at northwest50plus.com: Multifunctional Hedgerows (Feb 9) Dirt Gone Bad: When your soil amendment has been contaminated (March 9) Dazzling Dahlias (April 13) Water-wise Gardening (May 11) Unique Winter Vegetables to Grow (June 8) Fire-wise Landscaping (July 13) Season Extension Techniques (Aug. 10) Gardening with Native Plants for Pollinators (Sept. 14) Adapting Your Garden and Landscape for Climate Change (Oct. 12) Using Life Cycle Analysis to Understand the Sustainability of Your Garden Products and Practices (Nov. 9)

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

Tips for a great garden created with ease and safety

by Grace Peterson

id winter seem longer than usual this year? Maybe a bit more somber and wearisome than it normally is? With COVID restrictions limiting our activities indoors and inclement weather limiting them outdoors, it felt like spring would never get here! But now as the days get longer and the thermometer slowly inches upward, the excitement of spring is in the air. Lucky for us, gardening is an activity with easy social distancing so we can quarantine and putter without worry. Just a few steps into the garden and we can see the work that needs to be done. First for me is to tidy up. Because I like to leave much of my garden as-is during the winter months, the blanket of leaves that served to insulate plants and allowed critters to winter over looks pretty sad now.

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

... the excitement of spring is in the air. you enjoy and that don’t deplete your energy. Then, if you can afford it, hire a handyman to do the more difficult tasks such as tree or shrub pruning and heavy lifting. If you can’t afford it, perhaps a batch of cookies or a nice meal would make that helper happy.

A few quick tips:

c With COVID restrictions, take

A few years ago in June, I shared with you Patty Cassidy’s helpful book, The Illustrated Practical Guide to Gardening for Seniors: How to Maintain a Beautiful Outside Space with Ease and Safety in Later Years. Filled with clever ideas and resources for active gardening seniors, it is still relevant for anyone looking for ways to make gardening easier and safer.

Come to find out, Ms. Cassidy has authored a follow-up book titled, The Age-Proof Garden: 101 Practical Ideas and Projects for Stress-Free, Low-Maintenance Senior Gardening, Shown Step by Step in More Than 500 Photographs. This book is filled with project ideas for seniors, such as creating a potted patio garden where plants are up close and easier to manage. Advice on growing vegetables and fruit trees in pots is detailed, and the colorful photos make me swoon. There are lots of ideas for combining plants in raised beds. One such bed grows a columnar apple tree, a fig tree and several fruiting currant plants. Also, read about projects for vertical gardening of both edibles and flowers which raises plants to eye-level and reduces the need for bending.

I really like Ms. Cassidy’s practical advice, such as acknowledging your limitations. Better to choose garden tasks

Whatever your projects may be this spring, doing them safely and carefully will make for a happy gardening season.

Gathering the wet, heavy, leaves not only improves the look of my beds but allows the plants to breathe and stretch out. I like to haul the semi-decayed leaves to a secluded spot where they can finish their decomposing so I can use them for mulch later on. I’m also cutting back dead growth on last year’s perennials, being careful not to cut the new leaves emerging from the ground. These two jobs, along with a little weedpulling, really improve the look of my gardens. After a full day in the garden, my body surely feels it. While I soak in the tub, I like to evaluate my day and consider ways to improve my garden and my methods.

c For watering, use

lightweight hoses or use an automatic watering system

c Make sure pathways are flat and free of tripping hazards

c Have seating close by for

times when you need a break advantage of online gardening communities

c Use the largest pots possible. The bigger the pot, the less often it needs watering

c If possible, create your

garden so you can see it from indoors

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

For the

♥of Pets

Hope found me by Christy Doherty

I think some angels have stonebruised paws, bloodied elbows — and doggy breath.

wenty years ago, the storm clouds overhead were as dark and threatening as my thoughts. Brooding about life and darkly preoccupied, I grabbed two things and pointed my car west. I wanted a dramatic, solitary view. On a dismal weekday, I hoped to find it at the Fort Stevens jetty. I hadn’t seen a car for miles, and the parking lot was empty when I pulled in. But I was not alone. A ragged, forlorn dog eyed me — ears up, eyes searching, desperate for a friend. The wind whipped the beach grass. The rail-thin dog hunched against the cold. There wasn’t enough meat on his bones to block the chill. He limped toward me. As I stepped out of my old Cadillac, a battle waged in his soft brown eyes: a war between despair and a sliver of hope.

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

A battle waged inside me, too, as dark thoughts fueled my downward spiral. But. . . look at that skinny, banged-up dog. It seemed too many people had already snubbed him — I knelt and he came to me. His feet were swollen, his inner thighs pink and chapped from salt water and wind, and his elbow was scraped and bleeding. I climbed the lookout stairs to watch the waves break against the great rocks. He followed, limping slowly up the three short flights. He stood at my side as I searched for answers on the horizon beyond the violent waves. The wind-whipped surf crashed and frothed. My long hair blew, wraithlike; his tossing fur showed his ribs, and he shivered. Descending the stairs, I veered to my car. He stopped to sniff a trash can — no food. I turned to see him trying to eat the sharp-edged beach grass. “Hope!” I called out. It was my grandfather’s name, my favorite uncle’s middle name.

The dog came. Opening the passenger door, I invited him in. After hesitating, he climbed in with a small wag, then backed out. He looked around, searching, like, “wrong car.” But there was no other car. Dumped, I thought sadly. Each trial lasted longer, half in then out of the car. Then a whitehaired man appeared — and Hope growled. “Good protective dog,” the retiree said. “He’s not my dog,” I answered. Seeing the blood on Hope’s elbow, the man said resident coyotes would be drawn like a magnet. The next time Hope stepped in I closed the door. The kindly man agreed to follow to help if needed. I drove about 20 feet before Hope tried to claw his way out. I cracked the window and drove faster, not worried about damage to my old car. Soon he curled up on the floor and sighed.

Going through Astoria, he sat up, facing me. I spoke softly. He studied me. My hand held the passenger seat folded forward. Soon he lowered his chin into the crook of my elbow, sighed, and closed his eyes. In moments he was asleep. I found Hope at the beach that day. More accurately, Hope found me. I shudder to think what could’ve happened if I hadn’t met Hope. My beach bag sure didn’t have a sand bucket in it. For me, the bruised, starving dog out of nowhere was a godsend. I'd had dark, self-destructive plans — until an innocent dog in trouble altered my path. Some people disagree over angels having wings. I think it’s about dressing for the occasion. I think some angels have stonebruised paws, bloodied elbows — and doggy breath.

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

For the ZOE

♥of Pets

ADOPT ME!

This cute, friendly tuxedo female is about 15. Scared and upset when first surrendered, Zoe is now a happy affectionate little diva who loves attention. This sweet, quirky girl will thrive as the only pet in a quiet home with adults or calm older kids. She does require some special care, including a prescription diet for her tender tummy. Zoe is in the care of Cat Rescue & Adoption Network. To meet her, please call 541-225-4955 option 1, or email adoptinfo@CatRescues.org.

3 Best Apps for Seniors There are so many apps designed to help seniors today, on every subject. Here are a few good ones. 1. Elevate stimulates your mind to keep it just as active as you are, helping keep your comprehension and focus sharp. 2. MyFitnessPal will help keep you moving, while keeping track of foods you eat right down to calories, protein, and fats. 3. WhatsApp allows you to talk to anyone anywhere without getting a spike in your phone bill.

What to do, what to do We’ve all been home more than we’d like this year, and recent weather events were like Mother Nature saying, "If you thought that was rough, try this!" Even with clement weather after the storm, it remains important to stay home due to the pandemic. We could all use a fun or educational pastime to make the days at home more enjoyable, and libraries have come to the rescue. Examples of programs and classes offered at the Eugene Library include an online book group, activity kits, reading recommendations by librarians, live readings and more. Get details at www.eugene-or.gov/4422/Eugene-Public-Library.

Check out all the apps on your iPhone or Android to find things that mean the most to you, your health and loved ones. Contributed by Ambassador Hughie Baker, Keizer Computer

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Check out all the offerings at your local library and join the fun!

Retirement Life Timberhill Place 989 N.W. Spruce Street Corvallis, OR 97330 541-753-1488 Robin Bemrose

Assisted living community located within short distance of local shopping center. We offer 3 delicious meals daily, weekly housekeeping & linen services, social/recreational programs, scheduled transportation in our van and a full range of personal services available should you need them. No Buy-In, 60 Units We offer 9 styles of apartments including 2 BR/2 BA apartments.

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Enjoy an independent lifestyle & unparalleled service; ALL-DAY dining, on demand transportation, activity & social programs, weekly housekeeping & linen service, private dining room, libraries, community kitchens, TV theater, fitness center, computer room, game rooms, beauty shop, rec. room, interior courtyard w/ walking paths, underground parking, & 24-hr. staffing. Call for a complimentary lunch & tour. No buy-in or long term lease, 94 Units , Luxury Studio, 1&2 Bedroom, Apartment Homes.

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Bayberry Commons offers an active community with experienced and friendly staff. We feel this Assisted Living & Memory is your home and your privacy is paramount Care Community while under our care. We provide a unique 2211 Laura Laura Street 2211 Street resident based service helping to ensure your Springfield, Springfi eld,OR OR97477 97477 independence. We are an Assisted Living and 541-744-7000 541-744-7000 Memory Care Community. No Buy-In. Chantel Mitchell, Executive Director Patty Neuman, Administrator ed@bayberrycommons.com Pneuman@bayberrycommonsalf.com 48 Assisted Living units - Studio: $3,995, www.bayberrycommons.com 1 BR: $4,595, 2 BR: $4,995. Second person: $800. www.bayberrycommonsalf.com 14 Memory Care units - Private BA: $5,495, aHTUPM Shared BA: $5,195. Units are available!

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

Donate your Vehicle Locally!

• All procceds stay in the local community • We accept cars, trucks, RVs, running or not.

Cars for a Cause

888-227-8223

Classifieds WANTED

CEMETERY PLOTS

BASEBALL & SPORTS MEMORABILIA wanted. Buying old cards, pennants, autographs, photographs, tickets, programs, Pacific Coast League, etc. Call Alan, 503-481-0719.

BELCREST MEMORIAL PARK, SALEM. Premier Garden Plot Lot 3, Section 40, near front entry. Asking $4500. Call 503-931-7936. BELCREST MEMORIAL PARK, SALEM. One plot Lot 5, Section 20-7, Block 10. $2500. Call 936-499-5513.

PRE 1980 SPORT & non-sport cards, vintage model kits, .10¢/.12¢ comics;pre 1960’s pulp magazines. Call Gordon 503-313-7538.

BELCREST MEMORIAL PARK, SALEM. 4 plots available in Block 40. $2500 each. Call 541-990-9607.

CASH FOR GOOD CONDITION reloading equipment & supplies. 541-905-5453. DIABETIC TEST STRIPS WANTED. Paying top dollar! Free local pickup. Call Sharon, 503-679-3605.

CLASSIFIED AD RATES PRIVATE PARTY

Up to 20 words. $1.75 per extra word.

COMMERCIAL, REAL ESTATE

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Up to 20 words. $2.50 per extra word.

All real estate advertising in this magazine is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This magazine will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this magazine are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. Toll-free for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

CEMETERY PLOTS

Up to 20 words. $2.50 per extra word.

FRIENDSHIP ADS

Up to 30 words.

To submit your ad, email to dharrold@Northwest50Plus.com or call

503-304-1323.

Coming up in April: The Be Well edition Heart Health

Bright Eyes – vision care Keep the Spring in your Step — foot care Furnishings Matter for physical wellbeing Anti-inflammatory Diet — one you’ll actually like! For the Joy of Craft — a tale of love and success

May: Thanks, Mom

Stories ♥ Caring for Mom Let’s Play!

One tank getaways What’s open, What’s good Glorious Gardens To advertise, contact Jennifer at jmccammon@northwest50plus or 971.200.9686 22

NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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physician for a 30-minute c Insurance will reimburse Once theCare advance directi T The Finest in Senior Care The Finest in Senior and signed by two people to W We Provide: We Provide: document and carry it with • Housekeeping • Housekeeping and give it to the medical st • Bathing and Dressing • Bathing and Dressing The coronavirus is touchi • Medication Assistance • Medication Assistance can protect ourselves and o Meal Prepand and Transport with•the doctors to advocate for your care?” • Meal Prep and our Transport hands, and maintaining • Mobility Assistance • Mobility Assistance There is a document called an advance directive, which By completing an advanc allows you to write down who •you choose to speak with the peace of mind that there w • Licensed • Bonded • Licensed Bonded • Insured • Insured doctors if you are unable to speak for yourself. The advance doctors and advocate for ou directive allows you to indicate your choices for medical care part to reduce the heavy bu and life sustaining treatments. You can download an Oregon are helping a patient and th Advance Directive at Advancedirective/Oregon. authorized to speak on the If youEast or your ones have questions about Side:loved 503.239.8000 C Call medical today for a free in-home care assessment. West 503.746.7146 concerns, youSide: can make an appointment with your primary (Pam Wald lives near Co Corvallis: 541.757.0214 Hillsboro: 971.865.0101

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NORTHWEST 50 PLUS | SOUTH VALLEY March 2021

Lu lu SOUTH VALLEY 23

Free, Safe Grocery Delivery by PDX Concierge

We are a group of 50+ student volunteers who shop and deliver groceries free of charge for the elderly, immunocompromised, disabled, or others in need. 400+ deliveries made so far! As seen on Good Morning America/ ABC News & Oregonian No charge reimbursement system Competent & honest student volunteers PPE guidelines strictly adhered to References gladly given EBT taken, food bank deliveries available

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C U R R E N T LY S E R V I N G : Portland, Vancouver (WA), Eugene (including Springfield), Salem, Roseburg, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard/Tualatin/Lake Oswego, and Clackamas...but please call/check our website to confirm.

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pdxconcierge2020@gmail.com IOS App Store: PDX Concierge